Discover Vision Centers provide treatment for keratoconus in the greater metro area of Kansas City. We have multiple doctors that have experience in both surgical and non-surgical care for patients with keratoconus.
Keratoconus, often abbreviated as KC, is an eye condition in which the clear outer covering of the eye (cornea) becomes progressively thinner and weaker. The onset of keratoconus eye disease is generally in the 2nd and 3rd decade of life. Generally speaking, most will have a genetic predisposition to this condition, but excessive eye rubbing may exacerbate the situation. The corneal structure will normally have a uniform curvature, but the thinning and weakening lead to an abnormal bowing out effect. As the cornea takes on an irregular shape, this will lead to irregular astigmatism that is difficult to correct with standard glasses or contact lenses. Early diagnosis and treatment is key and can usually prevent worst case scenarios.
There are signs and symptoms of keratoconus that can be an early signal to you and your eye care provider that further testing to rule out the condition may be warranted. The presentation of keratoconus will usually be in our early teenage years to mid-twenties. Early detection is the best tool available for treatment and prevention of progressive disease.
Some signs may include:
Treatment of keratoconus, like almost any condition, has evolved, with new options becoming available in the last decade. In addition to glasses and contact lenses there are surgical procedures specifically for keratoconus to help stop or slow progression.
The goal when treating keratoconus without surgery is working to obtain the best possible vision with glasses and contact lenses. Often, standard soft or toric contact lenses are not able to achieve adequate corrected vision in the face of keratoconus due to the irregular corneal surface. In most cases, contact lenses designed specifically for keratoconus will be necessary.
Rigid gas permeable lenses (RGP) are smaller than a standard soft lens and sit mostly on the cornea, not extending to the conjunctiva (white part of the eye). The rigidity of the lens creates a smooth, regular front surface for the eye counteracting the underlying irregular corneal surface created by keratoconus.
Scleral lenses are also a rigid form of contact, but are much larger than an RGP. They will rest on the white portion of the eye and vault over the cornea. The tear layer will fill the void between the lens and cornea, and in conjunction with the lens provide a uniform surface therefore giving good vision correction.
There are also contacts known as hybrid lenses for keratoconus. These combine rigid and soft contact lens technologies into one lens. The center is rigid to mask the irregular corneal surface and the periphery of the lens is like a soft contact lens to allow for a comfortable fit.
Intacs for keratoconus are an option for patients with advanced keratoconus. Intacs is a surgical placement of semicircular ring segments in the cornea periphery to regularize the corneal shape. Intac ring segments can be removed. Intacs should not be considered an end-all in that nothing else will need to be done. Patients will still need some form of vision correction such as glasses or rigid contact lenses. Patients may still progress to needing a corneal transplant.
Corneal cross linking (CXL) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure now available for patients with keratoconus. The idea is to give more mechanical strength and stability to the corneal structure to halt the bowing out. It does not reverse any irregular astigmatism that is already present.
The corneal structure is made up of collagen fibers and cross linking will cause adjacent fibers to form chemical bonds with each other, therefore increasing the rigidity. The procedure utilizes the vitamin Riboflavin (B2) in eyedrop form. The cornea is infused with the drops and then exposed directly to an ultraviolet light that induces the formation of new bonds as described.
Keratoconus is a leading cause of full-thickness or penetrating keratoplasty (PK ). Keratoconus corneal transplants can also be done as deep lamellar transplants in which the innermost parts of the host or patient cornea are left in place. PK surgery involves removing the central scarred or irregular part of the patient’s cornea in a circular fashion and obtaining a circular piece of transplant cornea from a corneal donor. The transplant tissue is sutured in place. The sutures typically remain in place for one year. Corneal transplant surgery is reserved for cases that can not be helped with all the other options. So, corneal transplant should be considered the final surgical option to help restore vision.
While the exact cause of keratoconus is still being studied, certain factors like genetic predisposition and environmental influences play a significant role. To manage or potentially slow its progression, it’s advisable to avoid eye rubbing, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and protect your eyes from UV rays. Regular eye check-ups are essential for monitoring any changes. At Discover Vision, we guide our patients on these preventive measures, offering tailored advice to safeguard their eye health.
The treatment of keratoconus requires it to be correctly diagnosed. The patient’s history usually is a first sign. The typical patient has progressively more nearsightedness and ever increasing amounts of astigmatism required in their glasses. Eventually the glasses prescription will not allow them to see 20/20. Ultimately the eye doctor will obtain corneal topography which will clearly show a typical keratoconus pattern. The eye doctor will also check the thickness of the cornea. With keratoconus the cornea becomes steeper and thinner over time. Following the corneal topography and thickness with a device called a pachymeter will help confirm if the condition is stable or progressing.
Choosing Discover Vision for your keratoconus treatment means entrusting your eye health to a team of highly experienced specialists. Our staff includes renowned ophthalmologists and optometrists who are not only experts in eye care but are also deeply committed to advancing the field through research and innovation. We utilize the latest technology in eye care, ensuring precise diagnosis and effective treatment tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
At Discover Vision, we believe in a patient-centered approach. Our treatments are not just about managing symptoms; they are about understanding each patient’s lifestyle, concerns, and health goals. This holistic approach allows us to provide care that is not only medically advanced but also personalized and compassionate.
Moreover, our state-of-the-art facilities in Kansas City, MO, are equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment technologies. This includes advanced corneal topography for accurate diagnosis of keratoconus, specialized contact lens fitting for optimal vision correction, and the latest options in corneal cross-linking and transplant techniques.
We understand that dealing with keratoconus can be challenging, which is why we are dedicated to providing our patients with comprehensive support every step of the way – from initial consultation to ongoing management and follow-up care. Our goal is to ensure that every patient achieves the best possible vision and quality of life.
Choose Discover Vision for a partner in your journey towards clearer vision and better eye health. Experience the difference that expertise, technology, and personalized care can make in managing your keratoconus.
Dr. Doane is board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He is an active FDA investigator and has worked extensively with the Light Adjustable Lens implant since 2008 and is the company’s longest-tenured investigator of its lens technologies.
Yes, keratoconus typically affects both eyes, though the degree of progression can vary between them. One eye may be more severely affected than the other. Regular monitoring and tailored treatment for each eye are essential to manage the condition effectively and maintain the best possible vision.
The frequency of visits to an eye specialist for someone with keratoconus depends on the severity and progression of the condition. Typically, it’s recommended to have a check-up every 6 to 12 months. However, if there are significant changes in vision or comfort, immediate consultation is advised.
Keratoconus typically begins to develop in teenagers and young adults, but it can occasionally start in childhood. Early detection in children is crucial for managing the condition effectively. Parents should be vigilant about regular eye exams, especially if there’s a family history of keratoconus.
The field of keratoconus treatment is continually evolving. Recent advancements include improved techniques in corneal cross-linking and the development of more advanced custom contact lenses. Ongoing research is also focused on genetic therapies and novel surgical approaches. At Discover Vision, we stay updated with these advancements to provide the most effective treatments.
